Intravenous pyelogram

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a special x-ray examination of the kidneys, bladder, and ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder).

How the Test is Performed

An IVP is done in a hospital radiology department or a health care provider’s office by an x-ray technologist.

You will need to empty your bladder immediately before the procedure starts.

The health care provider will inject an iodine-based contrast (dye) into a vein in your arm. A series of x-ray images are taken at different times to see how the kidneys remove the dye and how it collects in your urine.

A compression device (a wide belt containing two balloons that can be inflated) may be used to keep the contrast material in the kidneys.

You will need to remain still during the procedure, which may take up to an hour.

Before the final image is taken, you will be asked to urinate again, to see how well the bladder has emptied.

You can resume your normal diet and medications after the procedure. You should drink plenty of fluids to help remove all the contrast dye from your body.

How to Prepare for the Test

As with all x-ray procedures, tell your health care provider if you:

Are allergic to contrast material

Are pregnant

Have any drug allergies

Your health care provider will tell you whether you can eat or drink before this test. You may be given a laxative to take the afternoon before the procedure to clear the intestines so your kidneys can be clearly seen.

You must sign a consent form. You will be asked to wear a hospital gown and to remove all jewelry.

How the Test will Feel

You may feel a burning or flushing sensation in your arm and body as the contrast dye is injected. You may also have a metallic taste in your mouth. This is normal and will quickly disappear.

Some people develop a headache, nausea, or vomiting after the dye is injected.

Why the Test is Performed

What Abnormal Results Mean

The test may reveal kidney diseases, birth defects of the urinary system, tumors, kidney stones, or damage to the urinary system.

Risks

There is a chance of an allergic reaction to the dye, even if you have received contrast dye in the past without any problem. If you have a known allergy to iodine-based contrast, an alternate test should be performed. Alternatives include retrograde pyelography, MRI, or ultrasound.

There is low radiation exposure. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits.

Children are more sensitive to the risks of radiation. This test is not likely to be done during pregnancy.

Considerations

Computed tomography (CT) scans have replaced IVP as the main tool for checking the urinary system. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is also used to look at the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.

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